PlayStation dives deeper into NFT sector, Xbox shows caution
A new patent for Sony PlayStation shows that they are looking at using NFTs to track in-game assets. Meanwhile, competitor Xbox is more cautious, although its boss says there is potential in new technology.
According to PlayStation’s patent applications, Sony is becoming more interested in NFTs and blockchain technology. The patent is called “Tracking Unique In-Game Digital Assets Using Tokens on a Distributed Ledger.” It focuses primarily on the expected applications of NFTs in games, namely creating, using, and modifying in-game assets.
The patent was first submitted on May 7, 2021, but published just a few days ago. It’s what you’d expect from an NFT implementation in games, but it’s remarkable that a gaming giant like Sony would consider the technology.
The patent uses baseball card collections as an example, but notes that the NFTs could have value if they could be transferred across blockchains or platforms. The patent specifically focuses on what is likely to be the eSports industry, noting that these individuals may have a large following. As such, there may be NFTs associated with these events and individuals commemorating special occasions.
While Sony appears to be moving forward with its NFT plans, Xbox has only hinted at even considering NFTs. Microsoft’s head of gaming, Phil Spencer, stated that there could be “some interesting things” with NFTs and play-to-earn mechanics, but urged caution.
Sony goes deeper into NFTs
Sony has experience with NFTs, and the game-related patent is far from its first foray into the technology. The company is partnering with Theta Labs to launch 3D NFTs compatible with spatial reality displays. Sony Europe also joined Theta’s blockchain validation program.
The NFTs will be visible in mixed reality, which is another rapidly developing technology. Sony Music has also considered NFTs, and the company has filed a trademark to use the Columbia Records logo for NFT releases.
Game studios see potential
The gaming industry is moving towards the use of NFTs, with several major companies making related efforts. Square Enix recently announced its Symbiogenesis NFT Project, an NFT-based interactive experience. In August, Atari revealed an NFT collection featuring artist Butcher Billy celebrating “50 years of Atari.”
In what is one of the biggest developments, Ubisoft launched Ubisoft Quartz, a platform for “playable, energy efficient NFTs”. It has since ended NFT content and support for the Ghost Recon Breakpoint game.
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